Sustainable timber home overlooking South Gippsland hills

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Combining functionality and sustainability before a majestic backdrop of South Gippsland, VIC, Jackie and Richard Dargaville envisioned a compact home that could withstand the elements, harbour a strong connection to place, and accommodate their grandchildren and family. Named after an old settlement that used to reside on the one-hectare property, 'The Hoddle' is where site-specific history meets the future of sustainable housing.
Photographer: Ben Hosking

In Fish Creek, 170 kilometres south-east of Melbourne, The Hoddle property runs along the top of a ridgeline. Such a high, exposed location demanded a protective feature like this high brick wall, which wraps around the house's rear to shelter from the western sun, severe Gippsland winds, and the fairly busy road that runs between Fish Creek and Foster.
Photographer: Ben Hosking

Completed in late 2016 under the supervision of Kim Bridgland at Edition Office, the building was designed as three independent pavilions, separated by sheltered internal courtyards and linked by a central corridor running the length of the house. Here, sliding doors open up the living area to the courtyard. Silvertop ash was used for the decking.
Photographer: Ben Hosking

"A central factor in our design brief was having a level of connectivity, to break the house down into smaller components," notes Jackie. Natural timbers give warmth to the living room, which features a 'Belt' tab;e by Mark Tuckey and a Danish vintage sofa from Grandfather's Axe.
Photographer: Ben Hosking

Inspired by the Rose Seidler house in Sydney, a large servery in the kitchen gives visual access to the living areas and the view beyond.
Photographer: Ben Hosking

The heart of the home, in Jackie's eyes, is the wood stove in the kitchen. "It's a big black shinny monster called Esse, which has a wetback to provide hot water and floor heating in winter," mentions Jackie. The white 'Devonshire' tiles are from Bespoke Tile and Stone in Richmond.
Photographer: Ben Hosking

"When we first saw the black ceilings, our jaws dropped to the floor!" Jackie exclaims. "But we're very glad, as it adds quite a dimension and also reflects the greens and blues outside."
Photographer: Ben Hosking

Extraordinary views of Corner Inlet and Wilson's Promontory National Park. The wood burning stove on the right is Stovax.
Photographer: Ben Hosking

In the living area, the 'Trace' drinks trolley by Adam Goodrum is from Tait. The bentwood chairs are by Thonet and pendant lights are from EOQ Design.
Photographer: Ben Hosking

Jackie bought the glassware from a Sydney gallery — made by Andrew Lavery, a former schoolmate of her son.
Photographer: Ben Hosking

Recycled brick was used for the exposed brick walls. Outside, the couple breeds cream Legbar and copper Maran chickens, while tending to a large vegetable garden and an orchard.
Photographer: Ben Hosking

Kim of Edition Office architects says the home takes its cues from the South Gippsland landscape. "From a distance, it's strong, robust, resilient and not too precious," she muses. But when you get close, it's incredibly humble."
Photographer: Ben Hosking